Meredith College Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Meredith College Dam, also known as Meredith Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Wake County, North Carolina.


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Summary

Situated on S.W. Beaverdam Creek, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 3 acres and a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet. With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, the dam poses a high hazard potential but is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Meredith College Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in February 2021. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam lacks a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and other risk management measures. The dam's location on Faircloth Street in Wake County, under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency, highlights the importance of ensuring its safety and maintenance for the surrounding community and downstream areas.

As a vital recreational feature in the region, Meredith College Dam plays a crucial role in providing water-based activities and enhancing the natural landscape. However, its high hazard potential underscores the need for proper risk assessment and emergency preparedness. By addressing these aspects and implementing necessary safety measures, this dam can continue to serve as a valuable resource while safeguarding the surrounding environment and communities from potential risks.

Dam Length

390

River Or Stream

S.W. Beaverdam Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

34

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.